Newcastle Striker Papiss Cisse Ignoring Transfer Talk

Papiss Cisse insists his focus is on Newcastle United despite transfer interest from several clubs abroad.

Turkish sides Trabzonspor and Fenerbahçe have been monitoring the situation with the Senegalese striker for several months and he has also been touted for a move to the Middle East.

Cisse scored his first goal of the season in Newcastle's 2-2 draw with Southampton on Sunday.

“I have a contract at Newcastle United,” he told the Newcastle Chronicle. “I need to be professional every time I play. I don't have a team to leave to.

“I am a Newcastle player. I try to work hard in every game I get.”

Cisse scored 11 times for Newcastle last season but only made 23 appearances in a season disrupted by the Africa Cup of Nations and a six-game suspension for spitting.

The 30-year-old was also banned for three games for an elbowing offence in a game against Everton.

“I try to forget about last season because it was very, very hard for me,” he said. “Sometimes I take something back. I stay strong. I always do my best. I enjoy this moment.

“The gaffer speaks to me well and learns me some things. I am happy to work for him.”

REUTERS